Evolution and prognosis of severe cervicofacial cellulitis in a Cameroonian secondary hospital

Abstract

Background: Severe cervicofacial cellulitis is a fatal condition with a poor prognosis. It has a relatively high frequency in underdeveloped countries, and its treatment remains a challenge. This study aimed to document and evaluate severe cervicofacial cellulitis patterns observed in a secondary hospital in Cameroon.Methods: A descriptive and prospective study was carried out in the Odontostomatology Department of the Garoua Regional Hospital, Cameroon. All patients with severe cervicofacial cellulitis were recruited between December 2020 and February 2021. The data concerning population analysis (age, sex), clinic (risk factors, symptoms, signs, aetiologies, evolutionary stages), treatment (medical, surgical, their evolution), and prognosis were analyzed.Results: Out of the total consultations, 45 cases (13.76%) of severe cervicofacial cellulitis were diagnosed, and 55.55% were females. The mean age was 32.6 years. According to the severity criteria, 24.44% of cases had extremely high severity, and 33.33% of high severity cases. The treatment consisted of antibiotics (100%), surgical debridement (91.11%), etiological treatment (82.35%), short-course corticosteroids (46.67%), and supportive treatment (100%). Complications occurred in 13.33% of cases. The evolution was favorable in 95.56% of cases. The death rate was 4.44%. Conclusion:Severe cervicofacial cellulitis remains alarming because of its life-threatening potential. An adequate treatment is required to have an evolution with little or no complications. Their prognosis remains strongly reserved with comorbidities.